The government has announced it will legally protect the title ‘nurse’, ensuring only those with the correct qualifications and registration can use it.

This long-awaited move confirmed today by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) on International Nurses Day, closes a critical loophole that has allowed unqualified individuals to use the term ‘nurse’ despite not being registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

The change will form part of wider reforms to health and care regulation, with legal penalties including significant fines for misuse. This marks a significant step forward for patient safety and trust.

The announcement follows years of campaigning from nursing leaders and cross-party support, including from MP Dawn Butler, who introduced the Nurse (Use of Title) Bill. It has been widely welcomed by professional bodies across the sector, from the NMC and Royal College of Nursing to the Florence Nightingale Foundation and Patients Association.

Professor Alison Leary, who helped lead the Protect Nurse campaign, called the move “a big step forward” and thanked all who backed the cause.

This announcement is a recognition of the expertise, professionalism, and public responsibility that the title ‘nurse’ carries. It also lays the groundwork for greater protection, investment, and respect for the profession as a whole.